Manchester United preparing summer bid for Lucas Biglia

The 29-year-old could add some much needed steel in the United midfield, which has been found wanting at times this season.

His experience will be vital in breaking down opposition attacks and adding protection to their defence, which has not held up well thus far and is only hanging on owing to the brilliance of David de Gea between the sticks.

The Lazio midfielder is expected to be available for a fee in the range of £8m in the summer, a steal for a player of his calibre. He could ably replace Michael Carrick, whose season has been blighted by multiple injuries.

United were interested in signing Biglia in January but the Italian club were unwilling to let him go, leaving Louis van Gaal to continue his pursuit for a top four spot with the existing squad.

The Dutchman is yet to find his best squad and has been making several changes to his formation to fit the system.

The Red Devils, should they qualify for the Champions league, are likely to make numerous additions to the squad in the summer, which would elevate them to title challengers as under Sir Alex Ferguson.

Meanwhile, the former Barcelona man believes that United have shown the best form over the past 20 games in the league.

"When you see the score of the last 19 or 20 matches, we are the best team in the league," Van Gaal said ahead of their trip to Swansea City on Saturday.

"I am never 100% happy. We can play better than we are now, but the main thing is to win games. We've shown our team spirit many times this season. It's good for the fans and for me," he added.